Notes
Many artists struggle to establish their musical identity, laboriously trying on different musical styles like pieces of clothing, looking to find what fits. But there are others that emerge fully formed, in full command of their craft, their identity, and their music. Dante' Blakeley fits firmly in the latter category. Dante's first solo EP, "ODYSSEY," is a captivating and moving debut that heralds the arrival of a gifted and significant new talent, one whose music feels familiar in the best possible way, while striking out on it's own territory. A Jersey boy who grew up in Atlantic City, Dante' was deeply involved in numerous choirs, bands, and theater companies. He explains, "I always wanted be a part of something creative, whether it was playing the trumpet or sax, or even marching as the drum major in the band. Music and performing has and will always be a part of me." Over the years, Dante' has appeared in fashion shows and musical performances around the world. Dante's unforgettable personality and friendly nature have made him one of the most recognizable faces in the New York social scene. As Dante's name grew in and around the world, the pieces began to fall into place for him. Recording continuously, Dante' joined up with local producer/DJ Jesse Felluss, and the two recorded four published EPs at RedBird Studio in New York City. The songs sparked major interest from distribution labels around the world. In the end, Dante' chose to sign with The Orchard, a newly formed, independent publishing label. "Working with Jesse and creating music that was deep and artistic gave us such freedom to have fun with music and develop a new sound exactly the way we wanted it," he declares. After two years and a lot of hard work, Dante' and Jesse were prepared to bring their own collaboration of original music, theater, and electrifying performances to the world as the musical duo Nue Pourn. Dante' later decided that it was finally time to embark on his solo career as a soul/funk/R&B artist, and now makes his debut with his first EP, "ODYSSEY," introducing Dante' as a gifted and talented singer/songwriter. "Working with producer Andrew Felluss and collaborator Cas Weinbren has been an inspirational journey for me. This album was the remedy my heart and soul needed. Being able to write about paradise and what it means to me gave me the strength to love. This album was my remedy, and it gave me the courage to write about the passing of my father." Each song on the EP has a unique sound and tone that will send goosebumps down your spine. That sense of wonder sweeps through the EP, and with the resounding piano chords, shimmering guitars, and the steady yet propulsive rhythm section, it's a soulful journey of love that also hearkens back to the 70's soul/R&B that is embedded in Dante's musical DNA.
